Tip 1: Arrival to Yerevan, Zvartnots International Airport

Upon your arrival at the Armenian airport, you'll be greeted by an eager crowd of unofficial taxi drivers at the exit, each vying for your attention. It's crucial to navigate past these drivers as they tend to charge exorbitant rates, often 10 to 20 times more than the usual fare. Instead, consider these reliable and economical alternatives:

1. EcoTaxi: This service offers a user-friendly app that allows you to pre-order a taxi. An EcoTaxi will await you right outside the airport, ready to whisk you away to the city center for approximately $8—a straightforward and budget-friendly option.

2. gg Taxi Application: Often referred to as the local Uber of Armenia, gg Taxi provides a similar range of services with the added benefit of affordable pricing. The minimum fare is currently around $1.5, though this may vary depending on traffic conditions and demand. It's a cheap, reliable option with quality service.

3. YandexGo: This is another alternative that mirrors Uber's functionalities. Opt for the Comfort package to enjoy a ride with a starting fare of just $1.5, subject to changes based on traffic and usage rates. 

4. Shuttle Bus: For those looking for the most economical option, the shuttle bus is an ideal choice. For around $1, you can enjoy a comfortable ride from the airport to the center of the city. This option is not only wallet-friendly but also allows you to experience local travel firsthand.

Both ggTaxi and YandexGo offer flexible payment options, allowing you to pay with either cash or a bank card, making your travel experience in Armenia as smooth and stress-free as possible.

 

Tip 2: Deciding where to stay

When it comes to choosing your accommodation in Yerevan, location is key. The heart of the city is known as Kentron, which encompasses a radius of approximately two kilometers from the Republic Square. This central area is bustling with life, offering an abundance of cafes, restaurants, shops, and, of course, places to taste Armenia's famed wines. However, while staying in the center provides the convenience of having the city's main attractions and amenities at your doorstep, it's worth noting that accommodation here tends to be pricier.

If you're traveling on a budget, consider looking for places to stay in the surrounding districts such as Arabkir, Nor Nork, or Avan. These areas offer more affordable lodging options while still giving you access to Yerevan's vibrant urban life. Keep in mind that while the prices in cafes and restaurants remain relatively consistent whether you're in the center or in the outskirts, the ambiance and accessibility can differ. That said, staying outside of Kentron doesn't mean you'll miss out on the authentic Yerevan experience. However, other districts may not be as tourist-friendly and could potentially lead to a less satisfying stay, so it's advisable to stick to the recommended areas for the best experience.

 

Tip 3: Eat & Drink

Yerevan offers a rich tapestry of culinary experiences, making it a paradise for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike. A must-visit for wine lovers is Saryan Street, famously dubbed the street of wine, where you can indulge in exquisite local and international wines. Notable wineries along this street include InVino and Tapastan, but there are plenty more gems waiting to be discovered – a quick search on Google Maps can lead you to other popular spots.

For those who prefer the cozy ambiance of cafes, Kaskad is the place to be, with its array of charming cafes like August and Limone. Pushkin Street offers a blend of both worlds, hosting a variety of cafes and pubs, making it a vibrant hub for both daytime and nighttime outings. The stretch between Saryan-Pushkin and Mashtots-Pushkin is particularly renowned for its bustling pubs, including favorites like Beatles and Calumet, while the area from Mashtots-Pushkin to Abovyan-Pushkin is lined with inviting cafes such as AfroLab, known as a haven for coffee aficionados, and De Angelo.

Aram Street is another culinary hotspot, especially known for its restaurants and cafes. Here, beer enthusiasts and foodies can revel in popular spots like Dargett and Dragon Garden. Meanwhile, Northern Avenue, or Hyusisayin Poghota, offers an all-encompassing experience with its lively blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Tumanyan Street is a culinary journey in itself, offering a diverse range of restaurants from Shawarma and Suvlaki to Gyros, Khinkali, and Chinese dishes. For those seeking authentic Armenian flavors, restaurants and 'Pandoks' such as Lavash, Sherep, Kovkaskaya Plennitsa, Yerevan Pandok, and Vostan are essential stops.

If you're looking to enjoy delicious meals without straining your wallet, Yerevan has you covered with affordable options like Sas Food Court, ArtLunch, and the various food courts within shopping malls, ensuring that you can savor the tastes of the city regardless of your budget.

Yerevan Wine Days

Tip 3: Shopping Malls

For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, Yerevan does not disappoint with its array of shopping malls, each offering a unique shopping experience. Yerevan Mall, Dalma Garden Mall, Rio Mall, and Mega Mall cater to a wide array of preferences, from standard to high-end brands, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Beyond shopping, these malls provide a comprehensive leisure experience with their extensive food courts. Here, you can savor a variety of cuisines ranging from local Armenian dishes to international favorites, perfect for refueling after a day of shopping.

For families, these malls are equipped with dedicated kids' zones, where children can enjoy safe and fun playtime while parents unwind or continue their shopping spree. Additionally, movie enthusiasts will appreciate the modern cinemas such as KinoPark and CinemaStar housed within these malls. Both cinemas offer a selection of movies in English and Russian, providing entertainment for both locals and international visitors alike. Whether you're looking to update your wardrobe, enjoy a family day out, or simply escape for a few hours of cinematic escapism, Yerevan's shopping malls offer a well-rounded experience to enhance your stay in the city.

 

Tip 4: Must See list

1. Garni
2. Geghard
3. Tsakhadzor
4. Sevan
5. Dilijan
6. Ejmiatsin
7. Jermuk
8. Tathev Monastery

Tip 5: Useful websites

  1. Turn.am: Your premier online destination for discovering services across Armenia. Whether you're searching for beauty salons, crypto exchanges, or event planning services, turn.am's smart search technology helps you find exactly what you need quickly and efficiently.
  2. List.am: A versatile listing website where people post a wide array of items for sale. Whether you're searching for household goods, electronics, or unique finds, List.am is the go-to online marketplace for buying directly from locals.
  3. Estate.am: Specializing in real estate, Estate.am is the ideal website for those looking to rent or buy an apartment in Yerevan. It offers a wide selection of properties, complementing the offerings on List.am for those with housing needs.
  4. HyurService.com: This is the ideal platform for booking local tours across Armenia. Whether you're interested in historical landmarks, natural beauty, or cultural experiences, HyurService.com provides a wide range of tours that cater to all interests.

  5. MTS.am: One of the leading mobile and internet service providers in Armenia, offering a range of telecommunication services and packages to meet the needs of individuals and businesses alike.

  6. Ucom.am: Provides comprehensive mobile, internet, and television services, known for its wide coverage and variety of plans designed to cater to different user needs across Armenia.

  7. TeamTelecom.am: Another key player in the Armenian telecom industry, offering reliable mobile and internet services, ensuring connectivity and communication for customers throughout the country.